The 20 Best Sling Bags in 2023
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In This Article
For most people, their concept of EDC essentials is what would easily fit in their pockets. Still, for others, this may not be enough. When you’re looking to carry more gear than would fit in your clothes’ compartments but not enough for a full-sized bag or daypack, it’s time to consider a compact sling bag. They offer a lightweight carry option for warm weather and long errands and pack just enough for full-day walkabouts without being too clunky or heavy. Since everybody’s ideal carry would be different, it’s best to find one that meets your specific storage and organization needs. In this guide, you'll find 20 examples of EDC-worthy sling bag options for every carry scenario.
Our Favorites, Ranked
The Best Overall Sling: Aer Day Sling Max [Buy]
The Best Sling on a Budget: Osprey Daylite [Buy]
The Best Sling for Cameras: Bellroy Venture Sling Camera Edition [Buy]
The Best Sling for Large Capacity: Alpaka Bravo Sling Max LE [Buy]
The Best Sling for Bike Commuters: North St. Pioneer 9 Hip Pack [Buy]
The Top Sling Bags You Should Know
When it comes to picking a good sling bag there are a few things you should look out for. The first is the capacity. Sling packs are usually much smaller than your typical backpack, so if you carry a lot of gear, focus on the larger options ranging from 7L-10L.
As with most EDC bags, you should also pay close attention to the materials. Water-resistant fabric and zippers are a must if you want to keep your gear dry. You should also pay attention to how heavy the sling is. For the most part, you’ll carry these over your shoulders, so if you have neck or shoulder issues, lighter is better.
Bellroy Venture Camera Edition Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Detachable, ambidextrous strap
Padded popout dividers
Leather free
Specifications
Capacity
10L
Weight
17.6 oz
Materials
Recycled ripstop nylon
There are few brands as trusted as Bellroy regarding high-quality bags. You can find everything from messenger bags to travel backpacks in its lineup. So naturally, there’s also a 10L Venture Sling Camera Edition worth checking out. It’s the perfect camera bag for grab-and-go photographers thanks to plenty of internal organization, a sleek water-resistant exterior, and straps on the bottom for a tripod. But all those same features make it great for EDC as well. A detachable strap with a quick-slide buckle makes it easy to access your gear in a pinch. Plus, the pockets and zippered pouches scattered throughout are perfect whether you’re carrying spare batteries, SD cards, flashlights, and a water bottle. The Bellroy Venture Sling comes in 6L or 9L options if you want something smaller and uses technical and durable recyled ripstop nylon. Photographers will also enjoy the hassle-free padded dividers that come with the sling.
Chrome Industries Tensile Hip Pack Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Expandable, gusseted water botttle pockets
Separate main compartments
Hip or sling carry
Specifications
Capacity
7L
Weight
13.4 oz
Materials
3-layer laminated ripstop nylon and polyester, 210D nylon ripstop
Anyone looking for a crossbody bag you can snap on and remove in one motion should look no further than the 7L Chrome Industries Tensile Hip Pack Sling. This small sling has the same signature seatbelt buckle you’ll find across its well-respected lineup. It’s easily adjustable and has a built-in bottle opener for celebrating once you reach your destination. It’s made entirely of water-resistant nylon that’s tough to break and lightweight. A zippered front pocket gives you access to your most used items quickly, so you won't need to take the whole thing off whenever you need to grab something. The main compartment is pretty barebones, giving you options to sort your larger gear as needed. The second compartment is the one you'll likely keep all your smaller items in as it has an integrated organizational pouch. It's also the compartment closest to your body, making it harder to access for ne'er-do-wells. It’s available in a stealthy all-black color option or a stormtrooper white, in 3-layer recycled laminated nylon and polyester lined with 210D nylon ripstop. Whichever you choose, chances are you won’t be disappointed.
WNDRD ROAM Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Lightning quick access
5-point adjustment system
Mesh back panel
Specifications
Capacity
3L
Weight
16 oz
Materials
840D/1680D ballistic nylon
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$
Sometimes, you don’t need a huge crossbody bag if you’re going for a quick stroll. Still, if you’re the type that never leaves the house without a camera, then the WNDRD ROAM Sling might be for you. This 3L camera sling is small enough that it won’t get in the way of your everyday life but is still packed with enough features to be useful even if you’re not a photographer. The entire sling uses ballistic nylon for its body and also has water-resistant YKK zippers that keep your gear dry in a passing rainstorm. There's plenty of internal organization for smaller accessories as well. It even comes with an adjustable internal divider so that you can bring an extra lens or even a snack (or both). The ROAM Sling is special, though, because the team at WANDRD designed it to fit everyone, regardless of body type. the 5-point adjustment system lets you adjust every aspect of how you carry the bag. It also has a built-in key clip and air mesh back panel to prevent a sweaty back on longer days. The cherry on top is the dual straps on the bottom, perfect for carrying a tripod or even a water bottle.
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NOMATIC Navigator Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Tamper-resistant zippers
Breathable back panel
Card holder in shoulder strap
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
35 oz
Materials
Water-resistant fabric
Whether you often travel or commute via public transportation, sometimes even a daypack can be too conspicuous. The NOMATIC Navigator Premium Everyday Sling is a versatile sling bag that combines a clever anti-theft design with plenty of organization for your daily essentials. It features a discreet all-black exterior made of a water-resistant material that protects your gear from the elements, along with the waterproof zippers. It also protects your gear from thieves with an RFID blocking safe pocket and tamper-proof zippers. You also get a cardholder built right into the shoulder strap to get to transit cards without pulling out your wallet. On the inside is a hidden key leash, another important item to keep secure while you're out and about. The back panel makes good use of breathable mesh to keep your back cool, and while the sling is too small to fit a laptop, it can definitely fit up to an 11-inch iPad or even a Nintendo Switch. In the main compartment, you’ll find five pockets for organizing smaller items, so you’ll know where everything is at all times. The front pocket also gives you quick access to smaller items, so you don’t have to dig through your pack in public should you need to grab some gum or earbuds.
Mission Workshop Axis Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
YKK urethane-coated zipper
Ultra-thin laser cut waist belt
U-Lock holder
Specifications
Capacity
2.5L
Weight
8 oz
Materials
HT 500D nylon
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$$
Mission Workshop excels at making durable bags for cyclists, and the 2.5L Axis Sling lives up to that legacy. It’s way smaller than the other options you’ll find from Mission Workshop. Still, the San Francisco-based company didn’t cut corners in delivering a sling made from the same high-quality materials as its backpacks. It’s made with 500d nylon and doesn’t underestimate the damage a passing rainstorm can do. It features water-repellent YKK urethane zippers complete with an extra flap for extra weather resistance. The entire interior has a floating liner to protect your essentials from the elements better than your typical fanny pack. The main compartment can hold your keys, wallet, and other everyday essentials. On the back is a U-Lock holder for cyclists, while the quick-release buckle means you won’t have to struggle to get it on or off. Whether you wear it fanny pack style or sling it over your shoulder, the Axis is a solid option for people who want to keep it light.
Osprey Daylite Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Multi-functional interior sleeve
Dual U-zip access
Zippered front panel slash pocket
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
8.4 oz
Materials
150D recycled polyester, PFC-free DWR
Osprey is probably best known for its lightweight travel and hiking backpacks, but it would be a mistake to overlook the 6L Daylite Sling. The sling is aptly named as it makes for a great option for your next day trip, thanks to a shoulder bag design and its lightweight. It features dual compartments with a mesh organizer and key clip built-in, making it easy for you to keep track of any smaller items that might get lost throughout the day. It has an easy-access pocket on the shoulder strap for items like chapstick or snacks on a hike, and because of its small size, it’s also fairly packable. The Osprey Daylight Sling could be a great option if you want a smaller back to take with you on your next vacation.
tomtoc Urban Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Quick access front pocket
Ergonomic, single-strap design
Duraflex buckles
Specifications
Capacity
4.0L
Weight
9.5 oz
Materials
CORDURA nylon
If you’re looking for more of a general use-case bag, check out the tomtoc Urban Sling Bag. It's made with a minimal design to help you fly under the radar throughout the day. It's made with CORDURA nylon and features a quick-release buckle for getting it on and off. A few internal pockets and sleeves in the main compartment keep your gear from falling into a giant pile at the bottom of the bag, and an exterior pocket lets you get to most items quickly. Plus, a third compartment lets you keep important items like your wallet or passport close to your body when you’re out. The cherry on top is that this bag comes in many different sizes and colors, so you can find one to fit your needs. It also comes with a 12-month warranty should anything go wrong. Whether commuting to the office or exploring a new city on vacation, the tomtoc Urban Sling Bag is a steal at this price point.
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Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Bike light attachment loop
Bottom compression straps
Heavy-duty YKK zippers
Specifications
Capacity
2.5L
Weight
8 oz
Materials
420D nylon pack cloth, 210D nylon pack cloth liner
Meant as an on-the-go hip pack, the Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack features a bike light mount and adjustable compression straps for attaching extra gear on the outside. A large diagonally zippered front pocket provides easy access to your small items and includes an integrated clip for your keys. The main compartment has a hanging pocket for a bit of organization, and both compartments use brightly colored liners to help you sort through your stuff easily. Tough, oversized YKK zippers pair with the brand’s signature paracord pulls to access your gear easily. Finally, two external carry handles let you comfortably tote around the Mini Quick Pack when it’s not on your shoulder or hips.
Hazard 4 Bandoleer Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Crush-resistant construction
HardPoint expansion
Ambidextrous strap
Specifications
Capacity
2L
Weight
24 oz
Materials
1000D CORDURA nylon
The most distinct feature of the Hazard 4 Bandoleer is the thermoformed molded hardshell construction of the bag itself. The technique involved turns the already-durable and water-resistant 1000D CORDURA fabric into something even more ready to deal with the scraps of daily use. With 2 liters of space, there’s enough room for your essential tech and carry gear without weighing you down and ruining your mobility. It features internal organization spaces for smaller items like stationery, keys, and small flashlights. There’s also a dedicated space compatible with hook and loop holsters for defensive CCW needs. The bag's exterior is also further extensible with Hazard 4’s HardPoint hardware accessories.
Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Tricot-lined pocket
Front zip pocket with key keeper
Ambidextrous strap
Specifications
Capacity
7L
Weight
10.58 oz
Materials
100% recycled nylon and polyester
If you’re looking for a discreet and functional sling bag, check out the Timbuk2 Vapor Sling. This bag is perfect for carrying everyday essentials like your multi-tool and charging cables, and it even has a tablet sleeve for up to a 10.5-inch iPad. You can get to the main compartment via the convenient side entry, which uses trusty YKK zippers to stay closed while you’re out and about. The bag has a tough exterior made of lightweight nylon that will protect your gear, but the pockets have a soft satin fabric which will keep tech from getting dinged up. One thing to note is that this bag doesn’t have much internal organization, but what it lacks on the inside, it makes up for with easy access pockets along the exterior. The Timbuk2 Vapor Sling comes in three low-key colors: black, cocoa brown, and navy blue.
Aer City Day Max X-Pac Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
11" tablet pocket
AquaGuard zippers
Fidlock shoulder strap
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
14 oz
Materials
VX42 X-Pac
If you research backpacks with some frequency, one brand that will pop up repeatedly is Aer. The company makes plenty of solid EDC options, and the 6L City Sling Max X-Pac is one of them. This is a classic sling emphasizing how you carry and organize your essentials. The bag is too small for spare clothes or a laptop but is perfect for things like glasses, passports, keys, and even an 11-inch tablet. The exterior is made of X-Pac material known for being lightweight and weatherproof and features YKK Aquaguard zippers for good measure. It also has a top handle if you need to adjust how you carry it in a pinch and the adjustable strap has a Fidlock magnetic closure for quick release. The interior has mesh pockets for ease of organization and comes in bright orange for better visibility.
Peak Design Everyday Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Adjustable padded strap
Versatile Flexfold dividers
Multiple size options
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
20 oz
Material
400D DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell
The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a minimalist and low-profile EDC pack that carries easily and provides just enough room for your everyday valuables and essentials, with size options to accommodate all your loadouts. Its core design features low weight and ergonomic details, such as angled strap mounts and an easily adjustable strap, which make for a comfortable and unrestricted all-day carry. Inside, the customizable internal organization system utilizes a FlexFold divider to ensure that your valuables, including your phone and camera, sit securely and safely. Multiple interior stretch pockets and a zippered external slip pocket ensure you’re never out of ways to organize and pack your things for your everyday adventures.
North St. Bags Pioneer 9 Hip Pack Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Removable nylon belt
Internal loop fields
Multiple carry options
Specifications
Capacity
2.65L
Weight
5.7 oz
Materials
ECOPAK EPX / 1000D CORDURA nylon
For a classic fanny pack-style sling, look no further than the North St. Bags Pioneer 9 Hip Pack. The benefit of its simple design is that you can wear it as a crossbody sling, a hip pack, a handlebar bag, or even a dopp kit when traveling. You can choose from two materials: either ECOPAK EPX or 1000D CORDURA nylon, both water-resistant. So at least you don’t have to worry about bad weather. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty which isn’t something you see often. It has a roughly 2.5L capacity, so while it can’t hold something like your laptop, it does have an internal velcro strip to which you can attach a small pocket. It also has smaller built-in organizers to help you easily track smaller essentials. The Pioneer 9 Hip Pack is available in many different colors, so whatever your style is, chances are you’ll be able to find one perfect for you.
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Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Super lightweight
Stowable strap
Internal mesh divider
Specifications
Capacity
1L
Weight
2.9 oz
Materials
DCH50 Dyneema
The high-tech, waterproof, and durable Dyneema Composite Fabric keeps the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Sling just under 3 ounces, yet rugged enough for your EDC needs. The stowable waist strap and multiple carry options give you a versatile pack that can transition from a sling bag to a fanny pack to an external accessory pouch that you can attach to your backpack. Three pockets provide plenty of organization options: the main pouch for food, and beverages, your camera and GPS gear, a front zipper pocket for valuables, keys, and your phone, and a stash pocket on the back for things you need within quick and easy reach. Durable YKK zippers and buckles keep your stuff safely stashed for this adventure-ready pack.
Trakke X-Pac Largo Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
3D ergonomic fit
Unique size and shape
Multiple pockets for your essentials
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
17 oz
Materials
VX21 X-Pac
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$
If you’re looking for a uniquely shaped bag that wears comfortably, then the Trakke X-Pac Largo Sling is worth checking out. This 6L sling pack is made for EDC thanks to a combination of solid build materials and clever design. It features tried-and-true materials like an X-Pac exterior and AustriAlpin Cobra buckle, as well as YKK zippers that will protect against rain. The bag's interior liner is a highly visible orange, perfect for low-light situations as the color provides a bright background for your gear. The X-Pac Largo Sling has two compartments. The smaller pocket is perfect for freeing up pocket space as it fits things like your phone, keys, and wallet. Then the larger compartment gives you more room to experiment with. Depending on the use case, you can toss in a small camera, tablet, or even a few pocket organizers.
DSPTCH Unit Sling Pouch RND Edition
PurchaseKey Features
Two zippered compartments
Waterproof YKK zippers
Removable quick adjust shoulder strap
Specifications
Capacity
N/A
Weight
7 oz
Materials
Dyneema composite fabric
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$
It seems like DSPTCH makes a bag for every occasion, and its RND editions typically signify experimental releases that are pretty damn cool. One of them being the Unit Sling Pouch. It’s made specifically for carrying smaller items that are too cumbersome to carry in your pockets. The material used is a super lightweight Dyneema composite fabric that only weighs 7 ounces and is water-resistant. The YKK zippers also seal together, preventing water from entering either compartment. Speaking of which, the bag has two minimal compartments. The smaller one is perfect for keys and other smaller items, while the main compartment is an empty space so you can customize how you carry your gear. It also comes with a quick-release Fidlock strap and can be worn underneath a jacket just as comfortably, thanks to its slim size and minimal silhouette. While the sling isn’t cheap, it’ll likely be the last sling you’ll ever need.
Mystery Ranch Hip Monkey Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Compressions straps
Adjustable waist belt
Detail pocket with keychain clip
Specifications
Capacity
8L
Weight
14.1 oz
Materials
500D CORDURA nylon
If you don’t want to think about too much and just want a solid, no-nonsense sling you can trust, get the 8L Mystery Ranch Monkey Sling. The brand makes practical gear whether you’re in the field or trekking around the city, and the Monkey Sling is a perfect example. It’s a classic fanny pack that is perfect for carrying anything from emergency kits to a water bottle in its large main compartment. It has an adjustable belt strap so you can wear it on your hip or over your shoulder, depending on the situation, and a sturdy buckle keeps it secure when you need it to be. It also features compression straps to help keep the bag slim against your body and has a keychain clip, so you’ll know where they are at all times. The bag comes in various colors, from stealthy black to high-vis orange, so you have plenty of options. It’s also one of the more affordable bags on this list, making it a solid choice if you’re not sure about the usefulness of a sling and want to try it without investing too much.
EVERGOODS CIVIC Access Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Breathable back panel
Zippered mesh pocket
Key leash
Specifications
Capacity
2L
Weight
13 oz
Materials
840D ballistic nylon
The CIVIC Access Sling from EVERGOODS is the perfect option for anyone looking for a compact bag for everyday use. This 2L sling uses an 840D ballistic nylon that protects against the elements whether you’re riding around town or trying out a new trail. It has a few pockets in the main compartment, perfect for small pocket notebooks, an external battery pack, or even a few emergency credit cards. It also has a smaller front pocket for quick snack access or the built-in key clip. It has a breathable back panel for comfortable all-day carry and a slick nylon strap to make swinging it around smoother. You can wear it as a hip pack when cycling, a shoulder sling when hiking, or even across your front when you need to keep a closer eye on your belongings. However you decide to carry, this is a good EDC option as it’s big enough to hold the important items yet small enough to ensure that you’re not bringing things you don’t need.
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Alpaka Bravo Max LE Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Paddednylon strap
Anti-theft, lockable zippers
14" laptop compartment
Specifications
Capacity
10L
Weight
22 oz
Material
Multicam X50 X-Pac
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$
Another great option for X-Pac lovers is the Alpaka Bravo Sling Max LE. This is one of the larger slings on this list, with a 10L capacity and four compartments. The exterior is a black Multicam X50 X-Pac weatherproof material and has an orange 210D ripstop nylon lining, making a perfect backdrop for smaller items. The front pocket has RFID blocking, and this anti-theft sling even has tamper-proof zippers for added peace of mind. The zippers are also waterproof, which helps keep your gear dry which is a good thing considering this sling can comfortably hold up to a 14-inch laptop. The front compartment has a nice mix of sleeves and mesh pockets to help organize your gear and even has a built-in magnetic key clip attachment point. The Alpaka Bravo Sling Max LE is perfect for anyone that still has to carry a good amount of tech for work but is looking to downsize from a traditional backpack.
GREENROOM136 Metrorunner Sling Bag
PurchaseKey Features
Overbuilt 2" strap
Compression straps
Secret pockets
Specifications
Capacity
6L
Weight
N/A
Materials
1000D CORDURA nylon
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$
Sometimes, going with the affordable means that you’ll be sacrificing quality, but that isn’t the case with the 6L GREENROOM136 Metrorunner Sling. This no-nonsense bag uses 1000D CORDURA nylon for the exterior and a YKK side release buckle, and water-resistant zippers. The shoulder strap also has a padded EVA foam for comfort, and the bag has two main compartments for organizing your gear. There are mini secret pockets you’ll have to find yourself (it’s a secret), and side compression straps keep the bag close to your body. If you want a bag that won’t break the bank but will still get the job done, you can’t go wrong with the Metrorunner.
Some Basic Sling Bag FAQs
Is a sling bag worth it?
A sling bag is worth it if you don’t need to carry too much and only need to EDC a few extra things. A sling bag might not be for everyone, but you won't be disappointed if you can hone down the perfect kit for your particular sling.
Are sling backpacks better?
Sling backpacks are not better or worse than a traditional backpack. They might be the right tool for the job, or they might not be. It might be better for you if you typically carry a big pack that’s mostly empty. If you already carry a bag full of EDC essentials, you might find it hard to stuff it all into a smaller sling pack.
Are sling bags still in style?
Sling packs are for sure back in style. Crossbody slings and fanny packs have come a long way since the 90s. Nowadays, they’re made with durable materials by trustworthy brands with an eye for clever design.
What are the benefits of a sling bag?
The benefits of a sling pack include quick access to frequently used items and a smaller bag that is way easier to manage when you’re out and about. They’re also typically lighter in weight than your average backpack, meaning you can spend the day outdoors without putting too much strain on your back.
How we picked
Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.
What is Everyday Carry?
Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily lives. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.
Why you should trust us
Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise with the industry and familiarity in design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.
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